Antique North Wind Face Press-Back Rocking Chair
Unbranded (Possibly S.K. Pierce or Murphy Chair Co.) · Furniture > Chairs & Rockers
Era / Decade
Late Victorian era (approx. 1890-1910)
Material
Solid Oak or Beech with a dark mahogany stain; original wood seat with a contemporary upholstered vinyl insert and brass-colored upholstery tacks.
Condition
Fair to Good. Structural integrity appears solid, but the finish shows significant wear and scratches. The seat has been modified with a non-original quilted vinyl pad, which detracts from the antique value.
Demand Level
Niche. Rocking chairs are slow sellers due to size and shipping costs, but the North Wind motif has a dedicated collector base.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$75 - $150
Estimated Retail Value
$400-$600 (based on a modern high-quality solid wood reproduction)
Comparable Sales
Similar press-back rockers with generic patterns typically sell for $50-$85. The 'North Wind' face adds a premium, with similar items sold on eBay (local pickup) and Etsy for $125-$200 depending on the condition of the finish.
Description
This is a classic late 19th-century 'North Wind' press-back rocking chair. It features the iconic mythological wind face carved into the top crest rail, flanked by floral scrolls. The chair has turned spindles, curved 'cobra' style armrests, and a contoured seat. It is finished in a dark, rich stain. Please note the seat has a newer tan quilted vinyl insert secured with tacks. Ideal as a restoration project or a rustic nursery accent piece.
Key Features
Highly collectible 'North Wind' mythological motif; hand-carved appearance (press-back technique); solid wood construction; classic Victorian/Edwardian silhouette.
Authenticity Indicators
The press-back design and spindle joinery are consistent with early 20th-century mass-manufactured American furniture. High confidence in its age (approx. 110-130 years old), though the seat is a modern alteration.
Flaws to Note
Non-original vinyl seat insert; surface scratches and finish loss on the arms and rockers; some visible scuffing on the spindles. The finish is uneven in areas.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Facebook Marketplace or local Craigslist (to avoid shipping costs); local antique mall booth; or an estate auction.
Selling Tips
Highlight the 'North Wind' carving as it is the most desirable feature. Use keywords like 'Victorian', 'Antique Rocker', and 'Grandma Core'. If possible, remove the vinyl pad to see if the original wood seat is intact underneath, as a full wood seat is more valuable. Clean with wood soap and apply a light coat of Howard Feed-N-Wax to refresh the finish for photos.